Tristan Stubbs Set for Extended Run at No. 3 in South Africa Test Squad

South Africa's cricket team is positioning Tristan Stubbs as the No. 3 batsman in their test line-up, starting with the first test against the West Indies. Stubbs, known for his dynamic batting in T20 cricket, has played only one previous test match. Coach Shukri Conrad is confident in Stubbs' potential.

South Africa's cricket team is giving Tristan Stubbs an extended opportunity at No. 3 in their test batting line-up, beginning with the upcoming first test against the West Indies in Port of Spain, coach Shukri Conrad announced on Tuesday. Stubbs, who will soon turn 24, has built a reputation for his aggressive batting in Twenty20 cricket but will now take on a more pivotal role in the test format.

Stubbs has only played one test match previously, against India in January, where he scored a total of four runs, contributing to South Africa's defeat by seven wickets. The team has faced challenges in maintaining a consistent No. 3 batsman in recent years.

Coach Conrad expressed confidence in Stubbs' potential, highlighting his robust technique and imposing physical presence. 'Tristan ticks all the boxes needed for this role,' Conrad said during a virtual press conference. 'He's a strong, imposing character with a good psyche and technique. I'm confident he'll excel, whether it's in the first test or later.'

This test series marks South Africa's first since suffering heavy defeats with a second-string side in New Zealand in February. The team is set to face a West Indies squad that recently endured a three-test series loss in England but gained valuable experience.

(With inputs from agencies.)